Monday's workout was the first practice for the New Orleans Saints defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins since rupturing his Achilles in the Saints’ NFC divisional playoff victory over Philadelphia. And while the setting was a little less glamorous, the occasion was monumental. . Rankins was elevated from the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list on Monday, after he was cleared to return to practice. . “It’s encouraging,” Coach Sean Payton said. “I’m not going to put a time clock on when we think he’ll be able to play, because obviously, the injury he had was significant. But he’s worked real hard to put himself in that position. . “When I’m ready, I’ll be ready,” Rankins said. “And when that time comes I’ll be out there helping this team the best I can.” - John DeShazier SENIOR WRITER . #sheldonrankins #Saints